West Nile virus warning as mosquito-bite disease is spreading with more cases

17 June 2023 , 17:15

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The CDC confirmed 13 cases so far (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

People in the US are being warned to watch out after the West Nile virus was detected in a batch of mosquitoes.

Positive samples across the country have been detected in 13 cases this year as of June 13, according to data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Cases were reported in Oregon, Pennsylvania, Wyoming, Nebraska, Illinois, Louisiana, Arizona, South Carolina and Georgia - four were recorded in Arizona alone.

Of the virus, the CSDC said: "About one in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord)."

Around one in every five people infected develop a fever or other symptoms that include joint pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, rash, or a headache.

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Eliminating standing water is one of many ways people can reduce the threat of mosquito bites (Getty Images)

The Harris County Public Health Mosquito Vector Control Division in Texas has since confirmed a mosquito sample had tested positive for the virus

"Our comprehensive mosquito surveillance program is key to identifying the presence of the virus in our community and guides our control efforts to help us better protect our residents," Division Director Dr Maximea Vigilant said in a release.

"West Nile virus has been in our area since 2002.

"During the summer months, we remind our residents to enjoy the outdoors but remember to protect themselves and their families from diseases transmitted by mosquitoes."

Around one in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness (BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Public health officials near Chicago are also warning citizens after a positive sample was taken.

The Chicago Department of Public Health said on Tuesday that "it remains important to mitigate the spread of [West Nile virus] and other mosquito-borne diseases."

"As summer approaches, we want to ensure that all Chicago residents can remain safe and healthy,” said Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr Allison Arwady.

“The best way to protect yourself from mosquitoes and the diseases they carry is to prevent mosquitoes around your home and avoid mosquito bites.”

The Illinois Department of Public Health confirmed the first mosquitoes in the state had tested positive on June 1.

The following guidance was released to help people avoid infection by protecting themselves against mosquitoes:

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• Use insect repellant that contains DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions.
• Eliminate standing water. Empty water from any outdoor containers, such as flowerpots, gutters, tires, toys, pet water dishes and birdbaths once weekly.
• Keep grass and weeds short to eliminate hiding places for adult mosquitoes.
• When outside between dusk and dawn, wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, socks and shoes.
• Make sure that all screens, windows and doors are tight-fitting and free of holes. Repair or replace screens that have tears or other openings.
• Check on neighbours regularly, especially those who are older, live alone or need additional assistance.

Benjamin Lynch